Camping Chairs
A good camping chair is one of the most underrated pieces of camp kit. After a long day on the trail, having something comfortable to sit in at the end of it makes a genuine difference. The right chair depends on how you're camping: weight and packability matter for trampers; comfort and stability matter more for car camping.
Our camping chair range covers everything from ultralight hiking chairs for backcountry use through to reclining loungers and multi-seaters for family car camping. Key brands are Coleman and OZtrail for car camping, and the Peak XV Ultralight Hiking Chair for anyone carrying their seat on their back.
Choosing the Right Chair
- Car camping: Prioritise comfort — higher seat height, armrests, and lumbar support. Folding directors chairs and reclining loungers work well when weight isn't a concern.
- Tramping/hiking: Weight is everything. The Peak XV Ultralight Hiking Chair packs small and weighs next to nothing — the only realistic option for carrying into the backcountry.
- Beach use: Look for wider leg feet to prevent sinking in sand. Rinse with fresh water after beach use to extend frame and fabric life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best camping chair for tramping and hiking in NZ?
For tramping and hiking, weight and pack size are everything. The Peak XV Ultralight Hiking Chair ($119.99) is our top pick — it's designed specifically for the trail, packing down small and weighing next to nothing without sacrificing comfort at camp. If you're heading into the backcountry, it's the one to reach for.
What's the difference between a moon chair and a standard camping chair?
A moon chair (sometimes called a barrel or bucket chair) has a deep, rounded seat that wraps around you, making it great for lounging at a campsite or festival. Standard camping chairs sit you upright in a more traditional position, which is better for eating, socialising, or longer seated periods. OZTrail moon chairs are a popular pick for casual basecamp use, while upright chairs suit people who want more back support or prefer a higher seating position.
What camping chair is best for bad backs?
Look for a chair with a higher seat height, firm lumbar support, and arm rests — the Coleman 5 Position Chair is a solid option as it lets you adjust the recline to find what's comfortable. Avoid deep bucket-style moon chairs if you have lower back issues, as they tend to put your hips below your knees. If you're unsure, try sitting in a few options before heading out — comfort varies a lot by body type.
Can camping chairs be used on the beach?
Yes, most camping chairs work fine on the beach, though standard legs can sink into soft sand. Look for chairs with wider leg feet or consider a low-slung option that sits closer to the ground for stability. Rinse off any salt water and sand after beach use to extend the life of the fabric and frame — more on that below.
What size and weight rating should I look for in a camping chair?
Most standard camping chairs are rated between 100–120 kg, which suits the majority of adults. If you need something heavier-duty, check the specs carefully — some chairs in our camping chairs range are rated higher. For kids or smaller adults, lighter-framed options are easier to carry and set up. When buying for a group or family, the Galaxy multi-seater options are worth considering for shared seating.
Are directors chairs good for camping?
Directors chairs are great for car camping and campsite use — they sit high, fold flat, and usually include a side table or cup holder. They're not designed for tramping due to their weight and bulk, but if you're driving to your site and want comfort and practicality, they're a strong choice. Pair one with a camp table from our camp furniture range for a proper outdoor setup.
How do I choose a camping chair for the whole family?
Think about how you camp: if you're car camping with kids, a mix of adult chairs and smaller kids' chairs works well, or look at the Galaxy multi-seater options for grouped seating. Budget is also worth considering — the Coleman Folding Chair at $29.99 and OZTrail Festival Chair at $49.99 are solid entry-level picks if you need several chairs without blowing the budget. For tramping families, the Peak XV Ultralight Hiking Chair is worth the investment for the adults carrying the load.
How do I care for a camping chair?
After each trip, wipe down the frame with a damp cloth and let the fabric dry fully before packing away — storing a damp chair is the fastest way to get mildew. For fabric seats, a mild soap and water scrub handles most dirt; avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the material. Store chairs in a dry place out of direct UV when not in use, and periodically check the joints and screws on folding frames to keep everything secure.